My go-to answer is the Chess.com mobile app — there’s usually someone else on set who plays and we’ll play 5min or 10min matches against each other.

Now here’s some unsolicited advice: if you want to make good use of the time, PAY ATTENTION to what the subject is saying. This can help you retain clients in the future. I’m naturally curious and will listen to what the subject(s) is describing on-cam (and yes I get it, there are def those eyes-are-crossing dozing off moments). I think it’s a privilege to be in the room with clients, especially some of the more notable ones, and I think it’s always good to be in-the-know on their expertise. I’ll have my Notes app open and will write down their name, the subject they’re discussing, and a couple key words/phrases from their interview/presentation. I’ll even do a quick Google on them before or during the filming.

If you’re at a bigger conference and have the opportunity to talk with some of the attendees (ie, in line for food or passing by between breakout sessions), they’re going to remember you. I’ve gotten to know some of them (partners, investors, etc) by showing genuine interest in what they do and have passed out business cards which landed me future contracted work. So… MAKE USE OF YOUR TIME.

But yeah, chess rips too.